Place Division Title Bets on Atlanta Braves

Atlanta thus far, has gotten great play from the usual players. Take Dansby Swanson for instance, who has seen his production rise recently. Also, the Braves have solved their third base scuffle placing Austin Riley as the starting corner, the result of losing Josh Donaldson via free agency. Riley could still use some work, but nonetheless has shown major promise. 

For the most part, We are 10 games into this hectic season. Looking inside the NL East, Atlanta is noticeably in front. Both the Marlins and Phillies have only logged three games, while the Nationals have seven under their belts. That leaves Atlanta and New York (Mets) as the only teams in the division to have played their entire schedule to date. What more does this unpredictable season hold? Do the Braves have the best roster to compete?

Hot Flashes Amongst Braves

The roster in Atlanta has seen the usual production, but has also gotten some unexpected, but gladly taken, hot streaks. Mike Soroka, the 22-year-old Canadian starter has pitched well thus far, however, his record doesn’t show it. The 1.59 ERA is certainly very pleasing to Braves fans as he continues his success in the show. Max Fried is looking like ace material so far this year as well. Max logged a win already and he also carries a 2.31 ERA. With Folty’s departure, young arms are starting to emerge. 

The Atlanta offense has had some slumps, highlighted by Ronald Acuna Jr. Never fear, however, Acuna has seemed to turn it around in the most recent series against the Mets. Freddie Freeman has also had a bumpy start to the year, including a noticeable hit-less game. But enough of the negative, multiple Braves have been taking the lineup by storm. 

Starting with Dansby Swanson (SS) who carries a .368 average while hitting a pair of bombs and driving in 11 runs. Swanson has been known to have his share of struggles on the offensive end, but where has that been this season? Travis d’Arnaud has filled the catcher’s position extremely well for Atlanta. A .364 average speaks volumes for him on the offensive as well. The free agency pick up, Marcell Ozuna, has been delivering as promised, as well. The outfielder/DH, has hit three bombs while supporting a .324 average.

East goes to Atlanta?

The Braves came in as the favorite for the division title, and I don’t see that narrative changing throughout the year. Their lineup is loaded with young talent on the offensive, we know. Young arms are also starting to come into play this season.

At this point, the closest competition would have to be the Washington Nationals. The defending champs have some question marks this year, and I truly believe Atlanta will reign as king of the NL East.

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